Trustee Stacy Ziarko embodies the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan’s value of collaboration.  

As president and CEO of Connect Macomb, a business advocacy and networking organization that serves more than 1,100 members countywide, she functions as a community builder and corporate matchmaker. The ethos of hospitality guides her work, which ranges from hosting events like the county’s largest business card exchange to celebrating small businesses at ribbon-cutting ceremonies, representing Macomb County at national business development conferences, and much more. 

Prior to leading Connect Macomb, previously known as the Sterling Heights Regional Chamber of Commerce, Ziarko worked with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and The Heat and Warmth Fund (THAW). She serves on several boards, including those of the Sterling Heights Public Library, Regina High School and Advancing Macomb. Ziarko was named as one of Crain’s 40 under 40, Class of 2020, and was recognized among Crain’s Most Notable Women in Nonprofits in 2022. 

In 2024, Ziarko joined the Community Foundation’s Board of Trustees. She takes pride in serving as a conduit between Macomb County and the Community Foundation, and says her superpower as a trustee would be linking people, industries and ideas to move initiatives forward. 

As president and CEO at Connect Macomb, how do you see your work connecting with the Community Foundation’s focus area of Economic Opportunity? 

I see our work as deeply aligned with the Community Foundation’s focus on Economic Opportunity. At its core, Connect Macomb exists to strengthen the economic vitality of our region by supporting businesses, nonprofits and local leaders — particularly those who create pathways to stable jobs, workforce readiness and inclusive growth. Through convening cross-sector partners, advancing small business development and connecting talent to opportunity, we help ensure that economic growth is not only strong, but broadly shared. 

What are you working on right now that you’re excited about? 

We are currently planning Macomb County’s Community Impact Day, (which takes place) in May 2026. This is a countywide volunteer initiative to bring together businesses, nonprofits, public agencies and community members to create real, lasting impact in our community. This will help Connect Macomb foster a culture where economic growth and community well-being go hand-in-hand. 

(The Community Foundation is a sponsor of this event.) 

What are the common barriers to thriving that you observe throughout the rural, suburban and urban communities of Macomb County? 

Several common barriers to thriving consistently emerge. While the specific circumstances may differ by geography, many of the underlying challenges are shared. 

• Access to workforce opportunities and skills development remains a significant barrier. Many employers in Macomb County struggle to find talent with the right technical or soft skills, while residents — particularly those from underserved communities — often lack access to affordable training, credential programs or clear pathways to good-paying careers. Strengthening connections between education, workforce programs and industry is essential to closing this gap.
• Access to affordable and stable housing is another growing barrier. Rising housing costs and limited inventory make it difficult for many working families to remain in or move into communities where they can thrive. Housing instability can impact workforce participation, educational outcomes and overall economic mobility. 
• Reliable access to broadband and digital connectivity has also become a critical factor in economic opportunity. In parts of Macomb County, particularly rural or underserved areas, limited high-speed internet access can restrict residents’ ability to work remotely, access online education and job training, run small businesses, or connect to essential services like telehealth. Ensuring affordable and reliable broadband is increasingly essential for full participation in today’s economy. 
• Access to capital and support for small businesses remains another challenge, particularly for minority-owned, women-owned and early-stage businesses. Entrepreneurs often need stronger networks, mentorship and financial resources to start and grow businesses that contribute to local economic vitality. 
• Finally, fragmentation between sectors and resources can limit progress. Many organizations are working hard to address community needs, but coordination between nonprofits, businesses, education and government can sometimes be inconsistent. Strengthening partnerships and creating shared strategies across sectors is critical to building more equitable and sustainable growth across Macomb County. 

Addressing these barriers requires collaborative leadership and sustained investment, but Macomb County also has tremendous assets — engaged businesses, strong nonprofit organizations and committed community leaders — that can help move the region toward greater opportunity and resilience.  

What motivates you to prioritize philanthropy and community service?

What motivates me to prioritize philanthropy and community service is a deep belief that strong communities are built when people and organizations invest in one another. I have seen firsthand how collaboration, generosity and shared responsibility can create real opportunities for people to thrive.  

What do you love about the Community Foundation?

It begins with the staff, whose dedication and expertise make the Community Foundation’s impact possible. Their behind-the-scenes efforts are what allow philanthropic investments to translate into meaningful change across our communities. 

I have also greatly valued the opportunity to work alongside fellow board members and learn about the important work happening across southeast Michigan. Each member brings a unique perspective and deep commitment to community impact, and those conversations have broadened my understanding of the many ways philanthropy can strengthen our region. 

Finally, it is a privilege to represent Macomb County, my hometown, and share with the Community Foundation the many positive things happening in our community. Being able to highlight the innovation, partnerships and progress taking place here makes this work especially meaningful to me.   

Is there a mantra or quote that inspires you?

“When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left, and I could say, ‘I used everything you gave me.’ ” – Erma Bombeck, humorist 

This story first appeared in the Spring 2026 REPORT Newsletter